In June, Bennett Foddy, Gabe Cuzzilo, and Maxi Boch introduced their new video game project called “Baby Steps.” This game idea, like many others, originated from the collaboration of three friends. What caught the attention of the internet community was the game’s unique protagonist—a character with a very large butt. The announcement of this seemingly unconventional feature sparked excitement, with online users eagerly expressing their admiration for the character’s “thiccness.”
Curiously enough, the butt was the first element created for the game, resembling the shape of two Kleenex boxes or glowing orbs. Foddy humorously reveals that the development process seemed to revolve around this particular body part. He points out that in over-the-shoulder action games, players often focus on that area, so following the norm of triple-A game design, they chose to emphasize it.
Originally conceived as a skiing uphill game, “Baby Steps” eventually transformed into a walking simulator centered around an out-of-shape individual named Nate. Nate, a 35-year-old bearded and bespectacled “failson,” embodies the archetype of someone who fails to launch, living a sedentary lifestyle in a onesie. However, Nate’s life takes an unexpected turn when he mysteriously gets transported to a bizarre world. In this world, Nate’s only means of escape is to put one foot in front of the other. Players control each of his legs, propelling him forward in a comical and slapstick manner.
Contrary to their previous works, such as the jazzy and blood-splattered beat-’em-up “Ape Out,” Foddy and Cuzzilo describe “Baby Steps” as a meditative experience. It deviates from their usual style, evident in Foddy’s other games like the challenging browser-based track-and-field game “QWOP” and the climbing-themed “Getting Over It.” Instead, “Baby Steps” tackles philosophical challenges, offering players a chance to reflect on their own lives.
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Scheduled for release on PlayStation 5 and PC in 2024, “Baby Steps” is undoubtedly related to Foddy’s iconic “QWOP” game. However, the similarities primarily lie in the concept of controlling the character’s legs. Unlike “QWOP,” which humorously turns a simple activity like running into a frustrating and absurd task, “Baby Steps” is an entirely different experience. The game intentionally reflects the essence of real hiking, providing players with a platform for emotional growth rather than traditional video game progression. There are no skill upgrades or character development; instead, “Baby Steps” encourages players to immerse themselves in the act of walking and recreates the space for contemplation and self-reflection that real hikes offer.
The theme and narrative of “Baby Steps” are inspired by the complex challenges many individuals are currently facing, particularly in a post-pandemic world characterized by burnout and a search for purpose and motivation. Although the game protagonist might appear as a satirical representation of its own fanbase—a gamer trapped in their parents’ basement—the game is actually intended as an escape, providing players with an opportunity to cope with their difficulties.
Furthermore, “Baby Steps” presents players with various scenarios to contemplate during their walking adventure. The objective is to lose oneself in thought and reflection. Although the game won’t be released until next year, Cuzzilo clarifies one common misconception—the game is not primarily about frustration or inducing rage. It does not aim to mock adult gamers stuck in unfavorable circumstances. Instead, “Baby Steps” empathizes with its protagonist, who is simply attempting to navigate a challenging situation.
In summary, “Baby Steps” is an ambitious project born out of the collaboration between friends who sought to create a unique and introspective video game experience. With its quirky protagonist, philosophical challenges, and focus on emotional growth, “Baby Steps” aims to offer players an escape and an opportunity to contemplate their lives in a post-pandemic world filled with uncertainty and burnout. By immersing players in the simple act of walking, the game recreates the sense of peace and introspection often found during real hikes. Anticipation is high for the release of “Baby Steps” in 2024, as players are eager to embark on this unconventional and introspective gaming journey.
